The Great Sussex Way
West Sussex awaits! Whether you're here for our unspoilt coastline, our wealth of cultural delights and array of great things to do, our miles of footpaths and cycle routes or to soak up a warm West Sussex welcome at outstanding places to eat and drink, there's something memorable for everyone to enjoy. Let your adventures begin.
Discover the Chichester District in West Sussex
Discover Chichester, the vibrant cathedral city and county capital of West Sussex. Immerse yourself in rich history with impressive Roman ruins and outstanding culture or explore the stunning countryside and rolling South Downs. Enjoy endless walking and cycling opportunities, charming towns and villages like Midhurst and Petworth, and the sparkling Sussex coast, home to beautiful beaches like West Wittering, East Wittering, Bracklesham Bay and Selsey.
Just over an hour from London and just under an hour from London Gatwick Airport, our stunning, sunny corner of Sussex is closer than you think!
The Great Sussex Way is here to help you find GREAT things to do in Chichester and the the surrounding area, read on for more ideas…
South Downs National Park
The South Downs National Park is one of the top West Sussex attractions encompassing majestic rolling hills, heathland, rivers, and more woodland that any other national park in England or Wales – including some of the most ancient forests in the country - making it a perfect playground for those who love the outdoors, whether that’s on two feet or on a bike. As well as epic walking trails including The South Downs Way, here you’ll find important habitats for wildlife, including rare species like the Adonis and Chalkhill Blue Butterflies.
West Wittering Beach
One of the South Coast’s best loved beaches, once you’ve experienced the golden sands of West Wittering beach between your toes it’s easy to see why. Long stretches of soft sand and shallow water make it perfect for families, while also offering an abundance of opportunities for adrenaline seekers to enjoy the waves. Often extremely busy in summer (we recommend booking parking to avoid disappointment), quieter spots can be found at neighbouring East Wittering or a little further along the coast at Selsey.
Goodwood
Goodwood, for many, is a name synonymous with incredible events like the Festival of Speed, the Qatar Goodwood Festival or the Goodwood Revival, which draw visitors from across the globe. The sporting country estate which covers 12,000 acres of stunning Sussex countryside is also home to a stylish Hotel and Spa, unforgettable dining experiences, golf courses, and the opportunity for high-energy adventures in the air, on the Motor Circuit and more.
Arundel Castle
Just ten miles from Chichester, discover almost a thousand years of history at Arundel Castle. A captivating day out with a huge amount original features to explore including the Norman Keep, medieval Gatehouse and the 14th Century Catholic Fitzalan Chapel, there's a huge amount to see, plus action-packed events and the annual floral celebrations each spring as the Tulip Festival and Allium Extravaganza surround the castle with vivid swathes of colour.

Exploring West Sussex in Summer
Win a stay in Bosham
Win a stay in Bosham, West Sussex
Great places for a glass of wine
From cosy country inns to sunny pub gardens, or elegant wine bars and restaurants.
Gorgeous Pub Gardens
Relax in stunning surroundings, with a local tipple or two
48 Hours in The Witterings
Discover the hidden gems of West and East Wittering
What's On in West Sussex
View AllAnna Karenina
Across the vast panorama of 19th-century Russia – from the glittering salons of Moscow and St…
Bellydance Classes | Taster sessions
Every Tuesday Throughout Chichester Festival we are offering one FREE taster sessions with our…
Chichester950 Children's Trail
Join Wilfrid the Seal on a journey of discovery in Chichester Cathedral's latest family trail…
Chichester950 | Religion, Rebellion & Reformation
To mark our 950th anniversary, we are delighted to present Religion, Rebellion & Reformation, an…
Chocolate Love Match - Hotel Chocolat Chichester
An exclusive guided chocolate tasting experience Book now to join Hotel Chocolat on a tasting…
Cowdray Polo
Polo matches are played throughout the week from April - September in two locations, Ambersham…
Festival of Chichester
This summer a huge range of events will come together under the Festival of Chichester banner…
Goodwood Art Foundation | Rachel Whiteread
A new destination for contemporary art in the UK, the Goodwood Art Foundation features the work of…
History of Arundel Castle Gardens Exhibition
Between now and October (excluding August), Arundel Museum will be holding a vibrant new exhibition…
Lunchtime Concerts at Chichester Cathedral
Each Tuesday at 1.10pm (apart from during school holidays) the Cathedral hosts a lunchtime concert…
Seeing each other: Portraits of Artists
Seeing Each Other: Portraits of Artists This landmark exhibition presents over 130 works that delve…
Summer junior golf camps | Goodwood
A fun environment for young golfers aged 5-13 to help them learn how to golf and develop new skills…
Turner's Vision at Petworth
For the first time in 20 years, a wide range of JMW Turner's artistic studies of the…
‘Andy Warhol: My True Story’ curated by Jean Wainwright
“Andy Warhol: My True Story”, curated by Jean Wainwright at Newlands House Gallery…
Marie and Rosetta
Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the roof-raising 'godmother of rock 'n' roll', influenced…
National Garden Scheme: The Old Vicarage Washington Open Garden
The Old Vicarage Washington is a great place to see a stunning display of Spring colour. Each year…
Talk | Some Men in London: Peter Parker in conversation with Simon Martin
As part of our Thursday Late event, join author Peter Parker, in conversation with Gallery Director…
The Rude Mechanical Theatre Company present 'Gentle Harry's Farm'
The Rude Mechanical Theatre Company present their smash hit musical comedy Gentle Harry's Farm…
Thursday Late | Celebrating Pride
Pallant House Gallery is delighted to be partnering with Chichester Pride to deliver a night full of…
Concert by Il Duo Elisir
Concert by international Italian musicians Matteo Salerno, flautist and Andrea Candeli, guitarist…
Flora & Fauna Tour
Flora & Fauna Tour Date: Friday 27th June In celebration of English Wine Week, join us for this…
Orvis Saltwater Fly Fishing Festival
Join us at the Orvis Saltwater Fly Fishing Festival 2025, set against the stunning backdrop of…
The Pergola Open Air Theatre
New Theatre Productions proudly present two entertaining plays for their traditional programme as…
Bloom & Grow
Escape the everyday! Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our museum landscape and historic…
Coachella Garden Festival
Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of music, colour, and celebration at Waterhaven's…
Don't miss...
Great places for a glass of wine
From cosy country inns to sunny pub gardens, or elegant wine bars and restaurants.
Things to Do in West Sussex
Explore our Towns, Villages and Coast
Image: Joanna Kaczorowska